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N.C. Insurance Agent Arrested For Alleged Embezzlement

Targeted News Service

RALEIGH, N.C., Nov. 15 -- The North Carolina Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced the arrest of Jonathan Garrett Chavis, 22, of 470 Murph McLaughlin Road, Red Springs; he is charged with one count each of embezzlement by an insurance agent and obtaining property by false pretense.

Department of Insurance criminal investigators allege that from Aug. 1, 2012, through Sept. 1, 2012, Chavis embezzled insurance premium payments in the amount of $1,200 from multiple customers while working as an insurance agent for United Insurance Company of America. The investigation began when United representatives contacted the Department of Insurance after finding discrepancies in an audit of its accounts.

Chavis was arrested on Nov. 15 and placed under a $2,000 unsecured bond. He is scheduled to appear in court in Robeson County on Nov. 16.

The Department of Insurance employs 20 sworn state law enforcement officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud. Since Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin took office in 2009, criminal investigators have received more than 14,000 complaints, resulting in more than 600 arrests, 333 criminal convictions and more than 110 pending court cases. These efforts have delivered more than $48.5 million in restitution and recoveries for victims.

An estimated 10 cents of every dollar paid in premiums goes toward the payment of fraudulent claims. To report suspected fraud, contact the Department of Insurance Criminal Investigations Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.